KOTA KINABALU: The long-awaited Beaufort–Sipitang road project is showing steady progress, with one phase targeted for completion in 2026 and another by 2027, says Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Shahelmey Yahya.
He said Package 1 of the roadworks was progressing well, with most sections already completed, although some bridges and remaining segments were still under construction.
“We are targeting completion in 2026. I hope the Public Works Department will continue to closely monitor the project to ensure everything stays on schedule,” Shahelmey told reporters after distributing fresh beef to the underprivileged in Putatan in conjunction with the Hari Raya Aidiladha on Tuesday (June 3).
The state Works MInister, however, said that Package 2 had faced delays due to technical and contract-related issues, which have now been largely resolved.
“I have been informed that some decisions were reached this year, allowing the contractor to move forward more smoothly. We are now looking at completion by 2027,” he said.
He added that he had urged the Public Works Department to closely monitor the contractors’ performance for both phases of the project.
Shahelmey also addressed a recent incident involving a motorcycle accident near one of the construction sites.
The accident, which occurred along Package 1, was reportedly linked to a burst water pipe and insufficient warning signs.
“Repair works and signage were put in place, but unfortunately, the rider did not notice the warnings and the accident happened. The Public Works Department has already met with the victim and obtained the police report,” he said.
While the accident was attributed to the rider’s negligence, Shahelmey reminded the department and all contractors involved to maintain strict traffic safety management during construction, especially after heavy rain.
“Ensure all safety barriers are in place and functioning. At the same time, I call on all road users to obey signage, avoid speeding, and be mindful of diversions. Everyone has a role to play in road safety,” he stressed.
He also acknowledged that arbitration-related issues had contributed to earlier delays in Package 2, largely due to contractual and design disputes.
These matters, he said, fall under contract management and are now being addressed.
Earlier, Shahelmey launched the 2025 Aidiladha sacrificial cow distribution ceremony at the Putatan District Office.
The Putatan Parliamentary Office contributed 30 cows for distribution to various mosques, suraus, and relevant government agencies across the constituency.
“We hope this contribution will help mosques and suraus carry out the Aidiladha rituals more meaningfully,” he said.
He also reminded mosque and surau committees to ensure that the meat is distributed fairly, with priority given to the underprivileged in their communities.
